This visit to the Castle of the Angels in Rome was part of our stay near Rome. The Castle of the Angels was once a refuge for the popes and is said to be directly connected to the Vatican through underground passages. In any case, the castle is built immensely massive, but as far as I know has not withstood at least once, because the defenders had given up. With 12 € entrance fee, there is besides all the sights in the castle, even as a bonus an excellent view over the city of Rome!
The Castel Sant’Angelo, also known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian, is a towering cylindrical castle located on the banks of the Tiber River in Rome. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and has a rich history that dates back to ancient Rome.
The Castel Sant’Angelo was originally built by the Emperor Hadrian in 135 AD as a mausoleum for himself and his family. The building was designed to be a towering tomb that would rival the grandeur of the pyramids in Egypt. The mausoleum was later used by the popes as a fortress and a refuge during times of trouble.
The castle’s name comes from a legend that says that in 590 AD, the Archangel Michael appeared to Pope Gregory I on top of the building, sheathing his sword as a sign that the plague that was ravaging the city was over. This event is commemorated by a statue of the archangel on the roof of the building.
Over the centuries, the Castel Sant’Angelo has served many different functions. It was used as a prison during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and its cells were famously the site of the imprisonment and torture of Giordano Bruno and Galileo Galilei. It was also used as a papal residence, and its sumptuous apartments were home to several popes over the centuries.
Today, the Castel Sant’Angelo is open to the public as a museum. Visitors can explore the castle’s many levels and see its impressive collection of art and artifacts, including ancient Roman statues, Renaissance paintings, and medieval weapons. The building’s impressive architecture and stunning views of the city also make it a popular attraction for tourists.
The Castel Sant’Angelo is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Rome. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and panoramic views of the city make it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for a great photo opportunity, the Castel Sant’Angelo is sure to impress.